Prince William Looks Dapper as He Rewards Wildlife Heroes at Annual Tusk Awards

Prince William is speaking up for wildlife.

The Prince of Wales, 42, stepped out looking dapper for his annual outing to the Tusk Awards, where he rewarded three outstanding conservationists.

The Prince of Wales, long a supporter of conservation in Africa, has been patron of Tusk since 2005, one of the very first organizations he put his name behind when he started his public life.

Since 2012, the awards have recognized dedicated, forward-thinking individuals who are conservation leaders and wildlife rangers in 20 countries in Africa. Like William’s Earthshot Prize, which he celebrated in South Africa earlier in November, the awards have also helped previous winners to expand their work across the continent.

Soon after he arrived, William met some of the charity’s key supporters and the award winners.

Later, he presented the three awards: the Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa, The Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa and the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award. Along with a trophy, each received what William’s office called a “significant grant funding to continue their work.”

Following the awards presentation, the future king gave a speech to the crowd assembled.

Tusk is an enduring cause in William’s life. Over the summer, Charlie Mayhew, founder and president of Tusk, told PEOPLE that he believes the Prince will introduce his children, Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6, to the continent and its wildlife soon.

“I think it won’t be long before, you know, he will want to introduce them to Africa,” Mayhew said.

“He is very knowledgeable and passionate about conservation and the environment,” he added. “He has a particular love for Africa. He has been incredibly supportive as our patron and proactive in supporting us. We find ourselves incredibly lucky.”

Can’t get enough of PEOPLE’s Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

It is a busy end of the year for William and the senior members of the royal family. On Tuesday, Nov. 26, William took part in training with the Welsh Guards, of which he is honorary colonel.

Next week, he and wife Princess Kate, who is recovering from her chemotherapy treatment, will help host the visiting Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani, who are in London for a state visit. They will end next week by hosting Kate’s carol service on Dec. 6 at Westminster Abbey, celebrating communities and those who have helped spread kindness through the year.